Red Arrows Skyforce was officially opened yesterday with Squadron Leader Mike Ling being one of the lucky few on the first ride.

The 72ft high, 12-seat white-knuckle ride takes riders on a 360-degree tour of the skies.

Skyforce is nestled under the main climb of the Big One rollercoster, and will be decorated with Red Arrows livery, with its own control tower.

It allows people to take control of the aeroplane and spin, glide and take formation in their very own display.

The £2m ride is a unique partnership between the Red Arrows and the Pleasure Beach.

Following the launch, the crowds who had flocked to Pleasure Beach enjoyed a spectacular air display from the Red Arrows.

Nick Thompson, deputy managing director of Blackpool Pleasure Beach, said: “We have been working on this ride concept for well over a year now and its great to see everything come together with this fantastic launch and air display.

“We are delighted to have been able to work with such an iconic brand as the Red Arrows and look forward to welcoming many budding pilots to test their skills on Skyforce.”

The RAF Red Arrows perform high above Blackpool to launch the new Skyforce ride at the Blackpool Pleasure Beach

We are delighted to have been able to work with such an iconic brand as the Red Arrows and look forward to welcoming many budding pilots to test their skills on Skyforce.